Final California 2010 Integrated Report (303(d) List/305(b) Report)

Supporting Information

Regional Board 1 - North Coast Region

Water Body Name: Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
Water Body ID: CAR1059301120011219225345
Water Body Type: River & Stream
 
DECISION ID
4467
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
Pollutant: Nutrients
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Original
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the Section 303(d) List under Section 4.1 of the Listing Policy. Under this section a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Eight lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. There is no evidence that the biostimulatory narrative objective is exceeded. The North Coast RWQCB staff summary of the Upper Lost River De-Listing Recommendation along with the TMDL Analysis Staff Report support the decision to remove nutrients from the 303(d) List for this water segment.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification in favor of removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category (i.e., sufficient justification to de-list).

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: (1) The sediment quality guideline used complies, with the requirements of Section 6.1.3 of the Policy. (2) The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of Section 6.1.4 of the Policy. (3) The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of Section 6.1.5 of the Policy. (4) The results of the nutrient analysis on the nitrogen, chlorophyll-a, and phosphorus samples show that there is no evidence that the bio-stimulatory narrative objective has been exceeded. The dissolved oxygen samples show that the lowest values sampled are still above the minimum objective. These results do not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.1 of the Listing Policy. (5) Pursuant to Section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2008. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
USEPA Action (if applicable):
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1665
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Dissolved oxygen levels are above the existing numeric water quality objectives. There is no evidence of impacts from nutrients, dissolved oxygen, or other nutrient related effects on the sensitive species of concern. The beneficial uses appear to be unaffected by water temperature. The natural range of water temperatures and nutrient concentrations above Clear Lake Reservoir do not appear to be affected by anthropogenic activities. There is no evidence that the biostimulatory narrative objective is exceeded. The system appears to be nitrogen limited and nitrogen levels are far below levels expected to cause biostimulation in this system. Although, phosphorus levels are elevated in comparison to U.S. EPA suggested levels, these suggested levels are not relevant because there is no evidence of excessive algal growth in the reservoir and the system appears to be nitrogen limited.The Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area is listed as impaired for nutrients and temperature in accordance with Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The listing of the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed as impaired because of biostimulatory substances (nutrients) and high water temperature was made in 1996. In accordance with a consent decree, January 2005 is the deadline for adoption or de-listing of the TMDLs for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area by the State of California. Investigation into the basis of the listings revealed that the listings were apparently conferred from the Klamath River listings and not based on data or information specific to the Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir watershed. The appropriateness of the nutrients and temperature listings in the Upper Lost River is explored in the TMDL analysis. If the listings had been confirmed a TMDL would have been developed, however, the listings were not confirmed and de-listing for the watershed (including Clear Lake Reservoir, the streams draining to Clear Lake Reservoir and the Upper Lost River between the Clear Lake Reservoir dam and the Oregon border) is recommended by NCWRQCB staff.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Table 3.1, Specific Water Quality Objectives for North Coast Region Clear Lake, Upper & Lower Lost River, Tule Lake, Lower Klamath Lake: > 5.0 mg/l, minimum 8.0 mg/l, 50% lower limit (this means that 50% or more of the
monthly mean values must be equal to or greater than 8.0 mg/l). Other Streams in Upper Lost River HA: > 7.0 mg/l, minimum 8.0 mg/l, 50% lower limit (this means that 50% or more of the monthly mean values must be equal to or greater than 8.0 mg/l).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline:
Guideline Reference:
 
Spatial Representation: Continuous dissolved oxygen measurements made in the Upper Lost River at Walter Flat from September 30 to October 2, 2002.
Temporal Representation: Continuous dissolved oxygen measurements using a YSI Datasonde 6600 that measured dissolved oxygen in 15-minute increments were made in the Upper Lost River at Walter Flat from September 30 to October 2, 2002.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed in the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1666
 
Pollutant: Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Dissolved
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The TMDL Analysis was completed for Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir Watershed. The Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area is not listed for dissolved oxygen. This parameter, however, can be impacted by excessive biomass growth related to high nutrient concentrations. Diurnal cycles of algal respiration can lead to water that is photosynthetically supersaturated with dissolved oxygen in late afternoons and depressed in very early mornings by overnight respiration.

The most sensitive beneficial use that could be impacted by low dissolved oxygen concentrations is the ESA-listed sucker species. The amount of dissolved oxygen in water at 100% saturation is partly dependent on the altitude; the sampling stations in this analysis ranged in altitude from 4,163 to 4,921 feet above sea level. The water at this altitude can hold less dissolved oxygen, at 100% saturation, than water at lower elevations. Dissolved oxygen data at the six sampling stations consisted of instantaneous measurements at the time that grab samples were obtained and of two brief periods of continuous measurement. The Basin Plan objectives for dissolved oxygen in the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area are 5.0 mg/l as a minimum and 8.0 as a 50% lower limit.

There were 57 instantaneous measurements of dissolved oxygen ranging from 6.1 mg/l to 13.02 mg/l. The mean value of these measurements is 8.83 mg/l, with a median of 8.53 mg/l, and a lower 95% confidence level of 8.44 mg/l. The high value of 13.02 mg/l was obtained at the Boles Creek station in October 2002 at a time when there was no surface flow; this value was taken at 14:30 and may represent a photosynthetically supersaturated condition. Field notes state that heavy algal growth was noted in the pool upstream of the dewatered area where samples were taken. The lowest values were still above the minimum required by the Basin Plan. The lowest value, 6.1 mg/l was obtained at 17:30 in June 2003 at Walter Flat. The next lowest value, 6.55 mg/l was obtained at 08:30 in August 2001 at the station just downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam.

Continuous dissolved oxygen measurements using a YSI Datasonde 6600 that measured dissolved oxygen, pH, specific conductivity, and water temperature at 15-minute increments were made in the Upper Lost River at Walter Flat from September 30 to October 2, 2002. The data show a diurnal variation with a low of 9.59 mg/l and a high of 12.11 mg/l. The mean is 10.47 mg/l, the median is 10.34 mg/l, and the 95% lower confidence level is 10.38 mg/l. A Datasonde also was deployed at this station from June 9 through June 11, 2003. Again, a diurnal cycle is seen. The data from this sampling episode show warmer temperatures and lower dissolved oxygen concentrations, ranging from a low of 5.42 mg/l to a high of 6.32 mg/l. The mean of the measurements is 5.87 mg/l, the median is 5.85 mg/l, and the lower 95% confidence interval is 5.82 mg/l.

Similarly, continuous dissolved oxygen measurements using a YSI Datasonde 6600 that measured dissolved oxygen, pH, specific conductivity, and water temperature at 15-minute increments were made in the Willow Creek sampling station from September 30 to October 2, 2002. The data show variation with a low of 10.03 mg/l and a high of 13.74 mg/l. The mean is 12.03 mg/l, the median is 12.11 mg/l, and the 95% lower confidence level is 11.89 mg/l. A Datasonde also was deployed at this station from June 10 through June 12, 2003. Again, a diurnal cycle is seen. The data from this sampling episode show warmer temperatures and lower dissolved oxygen concentrations, ranging from a low of 3.61 mg/l to a high of 12.1 mg/l. The mean of the measurements is 7.09 mg/l, the median is 6.69 mg/l, and the lower 95% confidence interval is 6.69 mg/l (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Dissolved Oxygen, Table3.1 Specific Water Quality Objectives for North Coast Region Clear Lake, Upper & Lower Lost River, Tule Lake, Lower Klamath Lake:
> 5.0 mg/l, minimum 8.0 mg/l, 50% lower limit (this means that 50% or more of the monthly mean values must be equal to or greater than 8.0 mg/l).
Other Streams in Upper Lost River HA:
> 7.0 mg/l, minimum 8.0 mg/l, 50% lower limit (this means that 50% or more of the monthly mean values must be equal to or greater than 8.0 mg/l).
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: Specific WQOs in the Basin Plan Table 3.1.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The monitoring locations for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area are:
1. Lost River below Clear Lake Reservoir dam, LRCLDM.
2. Lost River at Walter Flat, WFLAT.
3. Mowitz Creek just downstream of the 136 bridge, MOWCRK.
4. Boles Creek just upstream of the 136 ford, BCFORD.
5. No. Fork Willow Creek below the Great Society Bridge, WCGSB.
6. Fletcher Creek just upstream of the 73 ford, FCFORD.

Two stations are on the Upper Lost River mainstem, one is downstream of the dam and the other at Walter Flat. Station LRCLDM is at a point about 1,000 meters downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam. Station WFLAT is at a point about 10 meters downstream of the Walter Flat Bridge, about eight miles downstream of the dam. In addition to the two stations on the Upper Lost River, there were four monitoring locations in streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir, the source of the Lost River. One station was on North Fork Willow Creek, the main tributary to Clear Lake Reservoir and the primary spawning stream for the endangered Lost River and shortnose suckers. Two other sites, on Boles and Fletcher Creeks, drain into Willow Creek. The fourth site, on Mowitz Creek, drains directly into Clear Lake Reservoir but does not contribute much water to the reservoir. This site was added late in the investigation because of the opportunity to add to a sparse dataset. All of the sites, except the station below the dam, were accessible only during late spring to early fall because wet weather made the roads impassable. Sampling locations were limited to areas that could be reached by truck. Logistical issues precluded sampling in Clear Lake Reservoir.
Temporal Representation: Data from August 2001 through June 2003 at different stations. Continuous dissolved oxygen measurements using a YSI Datasonde 6600 that measured dissolved oxygen, pH, specific conductivity, and water temperature at 15-minute increments were made in the Upper Lost River at Walter Flat, Willow Creek Sampling Station, from September 30 to October 2, 2002. A Datasonde also was deployed at Upper Lost River at Walter Flat station from June 9 through June 11, 2003. Measurements taken at Boles Creek station in October 2002 at a time when there was no surface flow. Measurements taken at August 2001 at the station just downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRQWQCB QA procedures followed for the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1667
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Measurement of nutrient species was planned because the Lost River is listed on the State 303(d) list for nutrients and this information is needed for system description. Ammonia, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), nitrate and nitrite were analytically determined. Total nitrogen was calculated from TKN, nitrate and nitrite. Total phosphorus and ortho-phosphate were analytically determined. The reasons for the recommendation to de-list the watershed include: There is no evidence that the biostimulatory narrative objective is exceeded. The system appears to be nitrogen limited and nitrogen levels are far below levels expected to cause biostimulation in this system. Although, phosphorus levels are elevated in comparison to U.S. EPA suggested levels, these suggested levels are not relevant because there is no evidence of excessive algal growth in the reservoir (perhaps due to turbidity levels that control light availability) and the system appears to be nitrogen limited. Dissolved oxygen levels are above the existing numeric water quality objectives. The nitrogen levels are below the concentration of concern for human health. There is no evidence of impacts from nutrients, dissolved oxygen, or other nutrient related effects on the sensitive species of concern. The beneficial uses appear to be unaffected by water temperature. The natural range of water temperatures and nutrient concentrations above Clear Lake Reservoir do not appear to be affected by anthropogenic activities. The temperatures below Clear Lake Reservoir are affected by anthropogenic activities (i.e., the dam and water flow fluctuations) but these activities are not addressed by a TMDL (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).The Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area is listed for nutrients and temperature in accordance with Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The listing of the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed as impaired because of biostimulatory substances (nutrients) and high water temperature was made in 1996. In accordance with a consent decree, January 2005 is the deadline for adoption or de-listing of the TMDLs for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area by the State of California. Investigation into the basis of the listings revealed that the listings were apparently conferred from the Klamath River listings and not based on data or information specific to the Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir watershed. The appropriateness of the nutrients and temperature listings in the Upper Lost River is explored in the TMDL analysis. If the listings had been confirmed a TMDL would have been developed, however, the listings were not confirmed and de-listing for the watershed (including Clear Lake Reservoir, the streams draining to Clear Lake Reservoir and the Upper Lost River between the Clear Lake Reservoir dam and the Oregon border) is recommended by the NCRWQCB staff.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Water shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The WQO for Biostimulatory Substances is inclusive of nutrients.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest. These activities are discussed in Section 6.0 of this document.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed in the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1668
 
Pollutant: Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The TMDL Analysis was completed for Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir Watershed. Total phosphorus was measured from monthly grab samples at the six sampling stations, for a total of 57 samples. The total phosphorus levels showed variability ranging from below the analytical reporting level to 4.5 mg/l. Of the 57 samples, 26 were below the analytical reporting limit; since phosphorus was present in the system these concentrations were assumed to be half of the reporting limit for statistical analyses. The high measurement, 4.5 mg/l, was from a sample taken in May 2002 at Fletcher Creek. The median of all of the total phosphorus results was 0.068 mg/l, and the 95% upper confidence limit is 0.35 mg/l, a level influenced by the abnormally high concentration at Fletcher Creek in May 2002.

The two stations on the Upper Lost River (WFLAT and LRCLDM) were analyzed separately from the four upstream stations on streams that drain to Clear Lake Reservoir (MOWCRK, BCFORD, WCGSB, and FCFORD). The 28 data points for the two Upper Lost River stations showed total phosphorus concentrations ranging from below the laboratory reporting limit to 0.37 mg/l, with a median of 0.20 mg/l, and a 95% upper confidence level of 0.23 mg/l (including four nondetects assumed to be half of the reporting limit). The 29 points from the four stations on streams leading to Clear Lake Reservoir showed total phosphorus concentrations ranging from below the laboratory-reporting limit to 4.5 mg/l, with a median of 0.025 mg/l (this is half of the laboratory reporting limit), and a 95% upper confidence level of 0.51 mg/l. Although most of the data points in this dataset are nondetects (22 nondetects out of 29 data points), for the complete dataset analysis, they were assumed to be half of the reporting limit. Total phosphorus levels were higher in the two downstream stations than in the stream stations upstream of Clear Lake Reservoir.

Median total phosphorus concentrations in the two Upper Lost River stations were above the 0.05-mg/l level suggested by the USEPA to control eutrophication in streams that enter lakes (USEPA 1986). Soil particles from discharged water from Clear Lake Reservoir may transport soil-organic-matter phosphorus and inorganic-soil/rock phosphorus to the Upper Lost River. The levels do not appear to present a eutrophication problem in the Upper Lost River or in Clear Lake Reservoir, probably because the high turbidity reduces sunlight penetration. The USBR (2000) indicated that there has been extensive siltation of Clear Lake Reservoir. Although, phosphorus levels are elevated in comparison to U.S. EPA suggested levels, these suggested levels are not relevant because there is no evidence of excessive algal growth in the reservoir (perhaps due to turbidity levels that control light availability) and the system appears to be nitrogen limited.

In the 57 observations in this dataset, the ratio between total nitrogen and total phosphorus ranged from 0 to 74. The value of R-Squared, the proportion of variation in total nitrogen that can be accounted for by variation in total phosphorus, is 0.0001; the correlation between total nitrogen and total phosphorus is -0.0097. There is no correlation between the values. These values are slightly different if the nitrogen nondetect values were reported as zero rather than half of the reporting limit. If the data sets with nondetects and the outlier are removed, there are 21 data points available for analysis of the nitrogen/phosphorus ratio. The N/P ratio for these points is shown in the third graph. A line showing an N/P of 10 is drawn for reference. Of the 21 data points, 18 have an N/P ratio of less than 10 this indicates
a system that is nitrogen limited (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Water shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The WQO for Biostimulatory substances includes Phosphorus.
The USEPA phosphorus 0.05-mg/l level suggested by the USEPA to control eutrophication in streams that enter lakes (USEPA 1986).
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The monitoring locations for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area are shown in Map 2 and are listed below with their station designations:
1. Lost River below Clear Lake Reservoir dam, LRCLDM.
2. Lost River at Walter Flat, WFLAT.
3. Mowitz Creek just downstream of the 136 bridge, MOWCRK.
4. Boles Creek just upstream of the 136 ford, BCFORD.
5. No. Fork Willow Creek below the Great Society Bridge, WCGSB.
6. Fletcher Creek just upstream of the 73 ford, FCFORD.

Two stations are on the Upper Lost River mainstem, one is downstream of the dam and the other at Walter Flat. Station LRCLDM is at a point about 1,000 meters downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam. Station WFLAT is at a point about 10 meters downstream of the Walter Flat Bridge, about eight miles downstream of the dam. In addition to the two stations on the Upper Lost River, there were four monitoring locations in streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir, the source of the Lost River. One station was on North Fork Willow Creek, the main tributary to Clear Lake Reservoir and the primary spawning stream for the endangered Lost River and shortnose suckers. Two other sites, on Boles and Fletcher Creeks, drain into Willow Creek. The fourth site, on Mowitz Creek, drains directly into Clear Lake Reservoir but does not contribute much water to the reservoir. This site was added late in the investigation because of the opportunity to add to a sparse dataset. All of the sites, except the station below the dam, were accessible only during late spring to early fall because wet weather made the roads impassable. Sampling locations were limited to areas that could be reached by truck. Logistical issues precluded sampling in Clear Lake Reservoir.
Temporal Representation: Sampling represents only one full season, late spring to early fall of one year. Sampling included monthly grab samples and instantaneous measurements for one season, continuous temperature monitoring for one season, and two short continuous multiparameter deployments. The sampling periods do not correspond to the time periods that the suckers are in the streams. There were limited spots at which the streams could be accessed; these might not correspond to the points that provide representative data. Drawing conclusions about the impact of water temperature and nutrients on suckers based on sampling during summer is justified, because those months represent the conditions worse than the fish encounter during their time in the streams. Water temperature in the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed was investigated using: Remote continuous water and air temperature monitors (Optic stowaway dataloggers) that took readings every 15 minutes from May through September 2002. Remote sensors that measured air temperature (Optic stowaway dataloggers) and relative humidity (HOBO instruments) every 15 minutes for three days in June 2003. Solar pathfinder measurements to calculate solar radiation that reached stream surfaces. A thermal infrared aerial survey in July 2001and computer simulation modeling using the SSTEMP model. The monitoring instrument at the Boles Creek station was out of the water during that period due to seasonal dewatering and the sampling at Mowitz Creek did not begin until the following month.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed for the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1660
 
Pollutant: Nutrients
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Nuisance
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 57
Number of Exceedances:
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The TMDL Analysis was completed for Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir Watershed. The Chlorophyll-a in the water column was measured from monthly grab samples at the six sampling stations, for a total of 57 samples. The water samples were filtered in the field, rinsed with magnesium carbonate, and preserved on dry ice because full-volume samples could not be delivered to analytical laboratory within the recommended holding period. The chlorophyll-a concentrations showed variability ranging from below the analytical reporting limit (0.00050 mg/l) to 0.016 mg/l. Of the 57 samples, 38 were below the analytical reporting limit; for statistical analyses, these concentrations were assumed to be half of the reporting limit. The high measurement, 0.016 mg/l, was from a sample taken in October 2002 at Mowitz Creek. The median of all of the chlorophyll-a results was 0.00025 mg/l (the default value for samples below the reporting limit), and the 95% upper confidence limit is 0.00174 mg/l. The two stations on the Upper Lost River (WFLAT and LRCLDM) were analyzed separately from the four upstream stations on streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir (MOWCRK, BCFORD, WCGSB, and FCFORD).

The 28 data points for the two Upper Lost River stations showed chlorophyll-a concentrations ranging from below the analytical reporting limit to 0.0032 mg/l, with a median of 0.00025 mg/l (the default value for samples below the reporting limit), and an 95% upper confidence limit of 0.00174 mg/l (including 21 nondetects assumed to be half of the reporting limit).

The 29 points from the four stations on streams leading to Clear Lake Reservoir showed chlorophyll-a concentrations ranging from below the laboratory reporting limit to 0.016 mg/l, with a median of 0.00025 mg/l (this is half of the laboratory reporting limit), and a 95% upper confidence level of 0.00279 mg/l. Although most of the data points in this dataset are nondetects (17 non-detects out of 29 data points), for the statistical analysis, they were assumed to be half of the reporting limit.

Using the 57 observations in the complete dataset, the relationship between total phosphorus and chlorophyll-a was weak. Neither visual observations nor water column chlorophyll-a measurements indicated impairment due to excess phosphorus. The lack of Chlorophyll-a in the water samples obtained for this analysis indicates that either the level of nutrients is too low to support excess algal growth or that some other factor is suppressing the algal growth. In either case, the beneficial uses of the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir system are not impaired by nutrient concentrations (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Water shall not contain bio-stimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The Bio-stimulatory WQO is inclusive of nutrients.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The monitoring locations for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area are:
1. Lost River below Clear Lake Reservoir dam, LRCLDM.
2. Lost River at Walter Flat, WFLAT.
3. Mowitz Creek just downstream of the 136 bridge, MOWCRK.
4. Boles Creek just upstream of the 136 ford, BCFORD.
5. No. Fork Willow Creek below the Great Society Bridge, WCGSB.
6. Fletcher Creek just upstream of the 73 ford, FCFORD.

Two stations are on the Upper Lost River mainstem, one is downstream of the dam and the other at Walter Flat. Station LRCLDM is at a point about 1,000 meters downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam. Station WFLAT is at a point about 10 meters downstream of the Walter Flat Bridge, about eight miles downstream of the dam. In addition to the two stations on the Upper Lost River, there were four monitoring locations in streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir, the source of the Lost River. One station was on North Fork Willow Creek, the main tributary to Clear Lake Reservoir and the primary spawning stream for the endangered Lost River and shortnose suckers. Two other sites, on Boles and Fletcher Creeks, drain into Willow Creek. The fourth site, on Mowitz Creek, drains directly into Clear Lake Reservoir but does not contribute much water to the reservoir. This site was added late in the investigation because of the opportunity to add to a sparse dataset. All of the sites, except the station below the dam, were accessible only during late spring to early fall because wet weather made the roads impassable. Sampling locations were limited to areas that could be reached by truck. Logistical issues precluded sampling in Clear Lake Reservoir.
Temporal Representation: Sampling represents only one full season, late spring to early fall of one year. Sampling included monthly grab samples and instantaneous measurements for one season, continuous temperature monitoring for one season, and two short continuous multiparameter deployments. The sampling periods do not correspond to the time periods that the suckers are in the streams. There were limited spots at which the streams could be accessed; these might not correspond to the points that provide representative data. Drawing conclusions about the impact of water temperature and nutrients on suckers based on sampling during summer, however, is justified because those months represent the conditions worse than the fish encounter during their time in the streams.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed for the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1659
 
Pollutant: Nutrients
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Measurement of nutrient species was planned because the Lost River is listed on the State 303(d) list for nutrients and this information is needed for system description. Ammonia, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), nitrate and nitrite were analytically determined. Total nitrogen was calculated from TKN, nitrate and nitrite. Total phosphorus and ortho-phosphate were analytically determined. The reasons for the recommendation to de-list the watershed include: There is no evidence that the biostimulatory narrative objective is exceeded. The system appears to be nitrogen limited and nitrogen levels are far below levels expected to cause biostimulation in this system. Although, phosphorus levels are elevated in comparison to U.S. EPA suggested levels, these suggested levels are not relevant because there is no evidence of excessive algal growth in the reservoir (perhaps due to turbidity levels that control light availability) and the system appears to be nitrogen limited. Dissolved oxygen levels are above the existing numeric water quality objectives. The nitrogen levels are below the concentration of concern for human health. There is no evidence of impacts from nutrients, dissolved oxygen, or other nutrient related effects on the sensitive species of concern. The beneficial uses appear to be unaffected by water temperature. The natural range of water temperatures and nutrient concentrations above Clear Lake Reservoir do not appear to be affected by anthropogenic activities (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).The Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area is listed for nutrients and temperature in accordance with Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The listing of the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed as impaired because of biostimulatory substances (nutrients) and high water temperature was made in 1996. In accordance with a consent decree, January 2005 is the deadline for adoption or de-listing of the TMDLs for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area by the State of California. Investigation into the basis of the listings revealed that the listings were apparently conferred from the Klamath River listings and not based on data or information specific to the Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir watershed. The appropriateness of the nutrients and temperature listings in the Upper Lost River is explored in the TMDL analysis. If the listings had been confirmed a TMDL would have been developed, however, the listings were not confirmed and de-listing for the watershed (including Clear Lake Reservoir, the streams draining to Clear Lake Reservoir and the Upper Lost River between the Clear Lake Reservoir dam and the Oregon border) is recommended by the NCRWQCB staff.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Water shall not contain bio-stimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The WQO for Bio-stimulatory Substances is inclusive of nutrients for the NCRWQCB.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest. These activities are discussed in Section 6.0 of this document.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed in the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1664
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 57
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Nitrogen concentration was measured from monthly grab samples at the six sampling stations, for a total of 57 samples. The system appears to be nitrogen limited with nitrogen levels far below levels expected to cause bio-stimulation in this system. There is no evidence that the bio-stimulatory narrative is exceeded. The total nitrogen concentrations were similar between the two Upper Lost River stations and the four stations upstream of Clear Lake Reservoir. The total nitrogen concentrations are well below the 10 mg/l NO3-N set by the U.S. EPA (1986) to protect human health consuming domestic water supplies. In other words, the nitrogen levels are below the concentration of concern for human health.

The analytical laboratory measured ammonia, nitrate, nitrite and TKN. Total nitrogen was calculated from the sum of TKN, nitrate, and nitrite. The total nitrogen levels showed some variability ranging from below the analytical reporting limit of 0.05 mg/l to 1.85 mg/l. Of the 57 samples, 17 were below the analytical reporting limit. Since nitrogen was present in the system these were assumed to be half of the reporting limit for statistical analyses. The highest concentration of total nitrogen, 1.85 mg/l, consisted entirely of TKN (ammonia and organic nitrogen). It was from a sample taken in August 2002 at Boles Creek during a time when the creek had no surface flow. The median of all of the total nitrogen results was 0.69 mg/l, and the 95% upper confidence level was 0.77 mg/l.

The two stations on the Upper Lost River (WFLAT and LRCLDM) were analyzed separately from the four upstream stations on streams that drain to Clear Lake Reservoir (MOWCRK, BCFORD, WCGSB, and FCFORD). The 28 data points for the two Upper Lost River stations showed total nitrogen concentrations ranging from below the laboratory-reporting limit to 1.65 mg/l, with a median of 0.76 (including 8 non-detects assumed to be half of the reporting limit for statistical analysis purposes). The 29 points from the four stations on streams leading to Clear Lake Reservoir showed total nitrogen concentrations ranging from below the laboratory-reporting limit to 1.85 mg/l, with a median of 0.57 (including 10 non-detects assumed to be half of the reporting limit for statistical analysis purposes). Ammonia concentrations are low or below the laboratory reporting level at the six sampling stations.

Analysis of all six stations grouped together shows that of 57 samples, 37 were below the analytical reporting limit. If the non-detects are included at a concentration equal to half of the reporting limit, the median concentration of ammonia is 0.025 mg/l (the default level for the nondetect samples), and the range is from below the reporting limit to 0.23 mg/l NH4-N.

Separating the four upstream stations from the two Upper Lost River stations does not show a significant difference in ammonia concentrations. If the nondetects are included at a concentration equal to half of the laboratory reporting limit, both upstream stations and downstream stations have a median ammonia concentration of 0.025 NH4-N. There are several samples with ammonia concentrations below the laboratory-reporting limit (29 total samples with 17 non-detects in the upstream stations and 20 non-detects out of 28 total samples in the downstream sites), so analysis of these data is difficult. Calculations of the percentage of ammonia present as the toxic un-ionized ammonia were not necessary because the concentration of total ammonia at all of the stations is well below the level needed to protect the sensitive life stages of the sucker population (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Water shall not contain bio-stimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The WQO for Bio-stimulatory substances includes Nitrogen. The USEPA concentration of 10 mg/l NO3-N set by the USEPA (1986) to protect human health consuming domestic water supplies.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The monitoring locations for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area are:
1. Lost River below Clear Lake Reservoir dam, LRCLDM.
2. Lost River at Walter Flat, WFLAT.
3. Mowitz Creek just downstream of the 136 bridge, MOWCRK.
4. Boles Creek just upstream of the 136 ford, BCFORD.
5. No. Fork Willow Creek below the Great Society Bridge, WCGSB.
6. Fletcher Creek just upstream of the 73 ford, FCFORD.

Two stations are on the Upper Lost River mainstem, one is downstream of the dam and the other at Walter Flat. Station LRCLDM is at a point about 1,000 meters downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam. Station WFLAT is at a point about 10 meters downstream of the Walter Flat Bridge, about eight miles downstream of the dam. In addition to the two stations on the Upper Lost River, there were four monitoring locations in streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir, the source of the Lost River. One station was on North Fork Willow Creek, the main tributary to Clear Lake Reservoir and the primary spawning stream for the endangered Lost River and shortnose suckers. Two other sites, on Boles and Fletcher Creeks, drain into Willow Creek. The fourth site, on Mowitz Creek, drains directly into Clear Lake Reservoir but does not contribute much water to the reservoir. This site was added late in the investigation because of the opportunity to add to a sparse dataset. All of the sites, except the station below the dam, were accessible only during late spring to early fall because wet weather made the roads impassable. Sampling locations were limited to areas that could be reached by truck. Logistical issues precluded sampling in Clear Lake Reservoir.
Temporal Representation: Sampling represents only one full season, late spring to early fall of one year. Sampling included monthly grab samples and instantaneous measurements for one season, continuous temperature monitoring for one season, and two short continuous multi-parameter deployments. The sampling periods do not correspond to the time periods that the suckers are in the streams. There were limited spots at which the streams could be accessed; these might not correspond to the points that provide representative data. Drawing conclusions about the impact of water temperature and nutrients on suckers based on sampling during summer, however, is justified because those months represent the conditions worse than the fish encounter during their time in the streams. Water temperature in the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed was investigated using: Remote continuous water and air temperature monitors (Optic stowaway data loggers) that took readings every 15 minutes from May through September 2002. Remote sensors that measured air temperature (Optic stowaway data loggers) and relative humidity (HOBO instruments) every 15 minutes for three days in June 2003. Solar pathfinder measurements to calculate solar radiation that reached stream surfaces. A thermal infrared aerial survey in July 2001and computer simulation modeling using the SSTEMP model. The monitoring instrument at the Boles Creek station was out of the water during that period due to seasonal dewatering and the sampling at Mowitz Creek did not begin until the following month.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA procedures followed in the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4467, Nutrients
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1663
 
Pollutant: Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Warm Freshwater Habitat
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Measurement of nutrient species was planned because the Lost River is listed on the State 303(d) list for nutrients and this information is needed for system description. Ammonia, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), nitrate and nitrite were analytically determined. Total nitrogen was calculated from TKN, nitrate and nitrite. Total phosphorus and ortho-phosphate were analytically determined. The reasons for the recommendation to de-list the watershed include: There is no evidence that the biostimulatory narrative objective is exceeded. The system appears to be nitrogen limited and nitrogen levels are far below levels expected to cause biostimulation in this system. Although, phosphorus levels are elevated in comparison to U.S. EPA suggested levels, these suggested levels are not relevant because there is no evidence of excessive algal growth in the reservoir and the system appears to be nitrogen limited. Dissolved oxygen levels are above the existing numeric water quality objectives. The nitrogen levels are below the concentration of concern for human health. There is no evidence of impacts from nutrients, dissolved oxygen, or other nutrient related effects on the sensitive species of concern. The beneficial uses appear to be unaffected by water temperature. The natural range of water temperatures and nutrient concentrations above Clear Lake Reservoir do not appear to be affected by anthropogenic activities. The temperatures below Clear Lake Reservoir are affected by anthropogenic activities (i.e., the dam and water flow fluctuations) but these activities are not addressed by a TMDL (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).
The Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area is listed as impaired for nutrients and temperature in accordance with Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The listing of the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed as impaired because of biostimulatory substances (nutrients) and high water temperature was made in 1996. In accordance with a consent decree, January 2005 is the deadline for adoption or de-listing of the TMDLs for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area by the State of California. Investigation into the basis of the listings revealed that the listings were apparently conferred from the Klamath River listings and not based on data or information specific to the Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir watershed. The appropriateness of the nutrients and temperature listings in the Upper Lost River is explored in the TMDL analysis. If the listings had been confirmed a TMDL would have been developed, however, the listings were not confirmed and de-listing for the watershed (including Clear Lake Reservoir, the streams draining to Clear Lake Reservoir and the Upper Lost River between the Clear Lake Reservoir dam and the Oregon border) is recommended by the NCRWQCB staff.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: Water shall not contain bio-stimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect beneficial uses.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The WQO for Bio-stimulatory Substances is inclusive of nutrients.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation:
Temporal Representation:
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed in the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
 
DECISION ID
4416
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: Delist from 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2006)
Revision Status Original
Reason for Delisting: Applicable WQS attained; reason for recovery unspecified
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: Pollutant
 
Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant is being considered for removal from the Section 303(d) List under Section 4.2 of the Listing Policy. Under Section 4.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status.

Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess temperature consistent with Listing Policy Section 6.1.5.9. None of the maximum weekly average temperature (MWAT) values exceeded evaluation guidelines selected to interpret the water quality objective.

Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification in favor of removing this water segment-pollutant combination from the Section 303(d) List (i.e., sufficient justification to de-list). The water temperature of the watershed supports the most sensitive beneficial use, the endangered sucker species.

This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: (1) The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of Section 6.1.4 of the Policy. (2) The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of Section 6.1.5 of the Policy. (3) There were remote continuous water and air temperature monitors that took readings every 15 minutes from May through September 2002. Of the estimated 3,000 MWATs calculated (temperature measurements from 4 stations taken over a 5 month period considered together), none of the MWATs exceeded the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 4.2 of the Listing Policy. (4) Pursuant to Section 4.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are met.
 
Regional Board Decision Recommendation: No new data were assessed for 2008. The decision has not changed.
 
State Board Review of Regional Board Conclusion and Recommendation:
 
State Board Decision Recommendation: After review of this Regional Board decision, SWRCB staff recommend the decision be approved by the State Board.
 
USEPA Action (if applicable):
 
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4416, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1661
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Not Specified
Fraction: None
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples: 0
Number of Exceedances: 0
 
Data and Information Type: Not Specified
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: Species listed under the federal Endangered Species Act are found in the study area, Lost River Suckers and Shortnose Suckers are classified as endangered species. The most sensitive beneficial uses most likely relate to the protection of the endangered sucker species. These fish can tolerate poor water quality such as low dissolved oxygen, high water temperature, and elevated pH levels, but the fish may not thrive at long-term, continual poor conditions resulting from habitat fragmentation, hydrologic regime alterations, and water diversion. Clear Lake Reservoir appears to possess a healthy population of Lost River and Shortnose suckers compared to other populations in the Klamath and Lost River Basin. The water quality and habitat conditions in the reservoir and its tributaries are better than elsewhere in the Klamath River and Lost River basins. Although the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) lists a cold-water fishery beneficial use for the study area, the current or historical presence of cold-water fish could not be confirmed. Computer simulation modeling suggests that decreasing solar radiation by increasing shade over the streams that drain into Clear Lake Reservoir could decrease water temperatures. The potential for increasing the shade due to riparian vegetation, however, is unlikely in all of these streams except for Willow Creek because of the inability of the soils to support increased vegetative growth. The Upper Lost River is more sensitive to the water temperature of the water released from Clear Lake Reservoir than to solar radiation. Even at current shade levels, the water temperature in the watershed supports the most sensitive beneficial use, the endangered sucker species. The relative health of the Clear Lake Reservoir Shortnose and Lost River sucker population is notable. Given the significance of the Clear Lake Reservoir watershed to preserving the Lost River and Shortnose sucker populations, it is necessary to preserve the aquatic habitat from any harmful effects related to land use activities. Willow Creek and its tributaries (primarily Boles Creek) are the only spawning sites for the sucker populations; it is especially important to protect valuable properly functioning riparian conditions in this stream. Regional Water Board staff has seen no information showing that the natural range of water temperature or nutrient concentrations in the streams draining into Clear Lake Reservoir are outside of the natural range for that environment due to anthropogenic causes (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d).The Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area is listed for nutrients and temperature in accordance with Section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act (CWA). The listing of the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed as impaired because of bio-stimulatory substances (nutrients) and high water temperature was made in 1996. In accordance with a consent decree, January 2005 is the deadline for adoption or de-listing of the TMDLs for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area by the State of California. Investigation into the basis of the listings revealed that the listings were apparently conferred from the Klamath River listings and not based on data or information specific to the Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir watershed. The appropriateness of the nutrients and temperature listings in the Upper Lost River is explored in the TMDL analysis. If the listings had been confirmed a TMDL would have been developed, however, the listings were not confirmed and de-listing for the watershed (including Clear Lake Reservoir, the streams draining to Clear Lake Reservoir and the Upper Lost River between the Clear Lake Reservoir dam and the Oregon border) is recommended by NCRWQCB staff.
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Basin Plan: The natural receiving water temperature of intrastate waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Water Board that such alteration in temperature does not adversely affect beneficial uses. At no time or place shall the temperature of any COLD water be increased by more than 5°F above natural receiving water temperature. At no time or place shall the temperature of WARM intrastate waters be increased more than 5°F above natural receiving water temperature.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The data collection effort associated with this analysis consisted of three components: collection and review of existing data, water quality grab samples (and associated instantaneous field measurements), and the short-term use of continuous monitoring devices. Neither visual observations nor water quality sampling indicated impairment due to excess nutrients, although the turbidity levels in the reservoir and in the Upper Lost River probably suppress primary production. The high level of turbidity noted in the Upper Lost River is of concern, but was not the subject of this analysis.
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: There are six monitoring locations total. Two stations are on the Upper Lost River mainstem, one is downstream of the dam and the other at Walter Flat. Station LRCLDM is at a point about 1,000 meters downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam. Station WFLAT is at a point about 10 meters downstream of the Walter Flat Bridge, about eight miles downstream of the dam. In addition to the two stations on the Upper Lost River, there were four monitoring locations in streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir, the source of the Lost River. One station was on North Fork Willow Creek, the main tributary to Clear Lake Reservoir and the primary spawning stream for the endangered Lost River and Shortnose suckers. Two other sites, on Boles and Fletcher Creeks, drain into Willow Creek. The fourth site, on Mowitz Creek, drains directly into Clear Lake Reservoir but does not contribute much water to the reservoir. This site was added late in the investigation because of the opportunity to add to a sparse dataset. Logistical issues precluded sampling in Clear Lake Reservoir.
Temporal Representation: Water temperature in the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed was investigated using: Remote continuous water and air temperature monitors (Optic stowaway data loggers) that took readings every 15 minutes from May through September 2002. Remote sensors that measured air temperature (Optic stowaway dataloggers) and relative humidity (HOBO instruments) every 15 minutes for three days in June 2003. Solar pathfinder measurements to calculate solar radiation that reached stream surfaces. A thermal infrared aerial survey in July 2001and computer simulation modeling using the SSTEMP model. All of the sites, except the station below the dam, were accessible only during late spring to early fall because wet weather made the roads impassable. Sampling locations were limited to areas that could be reached by truck.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed for the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
 
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 4416, Temperature, water
Region 1     
Klamath River HU, Lost River HA, Clear Lake, Boles HSAs
 
LOE ID: 1662
 
Pollutant: Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: Pollutant-Water
Matrix: Water
Fraction: Total
 
Beneficial Use: Preservation of Rare & Endangered Species
 
Number of Samples:
Number of Exceedances:
 
Data and Information Type: PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: The TMDL Analysis was completed for Upper Lost River and Clear Lake Reservoir Watershed. The most sensitive beneficial uses of Clear Lake most likely relate to the protection of the endangered sucker species. The sensitivity analysis using SSTEMP showed that daily average water temperature at the sampling stations in the streams that drain to Clear Lake Reservoir is most sensitive to influence by air temperature, solar radiation, and relative humidity. In the two Upper Lost River stations downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir, water temperature is most sensitive to inflow temperature, that is, the temperature of the water released from the Clear Lake Reservoir. The warmest stream temperatures during the data collection period were found during the week of July 15, 2002. The maximum weekly average temperatures (MWAT) at the sampling stations for that week were: WFLAT, 27.40°C; LRCLDM, 26.64°C; WCGSB, 27.63°C; FCFORD, 22.75°C. These MWATs are well below the Critical Thermal Maxima for Shortnose Suckers (32.1 to 33.3 °C) and also well below the 96-Hour Mean Lethal Concentration for both Long River Suckers and Short Nose Suckers juveniles at 31.2 °C. The water temperature of the watershed supports the most sensitive beneficial use, the endangered sucker species (North Coast RWQCB, 2004d)
Data Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
SWAMP Data: Non-SWAMP
 
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: Water Quality Control Plan for the Control of Temperature in the Coastal and Interstate Waters and Enclosed Bays and Estuaries of California (Thermal Plan).
Lost River:
1. Cold Interstate Waters: A. Elevated temperature waste discharges into cold interstate waters are prohibited.
2. Warm Interstate Waters: A. Thermal waste discharges having a maximum
temperature greater than 5°F above natural receiving water temperature are prohibited. B. Elevated temperature wastes shall not cause the temperature of warm interstate waters to increase by more than 5°F above natural temperature at any time or place. D. Lost River, Elevated temperature wastes discharged to the Lost River shall not cause the temperature of the receiving water to increase by more than 2°F when the receiving water temperature is less than 62°F, and 0°F when the receiving water temperature exceeds 62°F.
Objective/Criterion Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Evaluation Guideline: The maximum weekly average temperatures (MWATs) were used from the water body to determine if the Objective was being exceeded. The Lost River Suckers and Shortnose Suckers species are listed under the Endangered Species Act and they are found in the study area. The Critical Thermal Maxima for Shortnose suckers is between the ranges of 32.1 to 33.3 °C (Castleberry and Cech, 1993). The 96-Hour Mean Lethal Concentration (LC50) for Lost River Suckers (LRS) is 31.2 °C for juveniles (with a 95% Confidence Interval range of 30.8 to 31.5 °C for juveniles) and for the Shortnose Suckers (SNS) it is 31.9°C for larva and 31.2 °C for juveniles (with a 95% Confidence Interval range of 30.8 to 31.6 °C for juveniles) (Bellerud and Saiki, 1995) (page 34, TMDL).
Guideline Reference: Placeholder reference 2006 303(d)
 
Spatial Representation: The monitoring locations for the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir area are shown in Map 2 and are listed below with their station designations:
1. Lost River below Clear Lake Reservoir dam, LRCLDM.
2. Lost River at Walter Flat, WFLAT.
3. Mowitz Creek just downstream of the 136 bridge, MOWCRK.
4. Boles Creek just upstream of the 136 ford, BCFORD.
5. No. Fork Willow Creek below the Great Society Bridge, WCGSB.
6. Fletcher Creek just upstream of the 73 ford, FCFORD.

Two stations are on the Upper Lost River mainstem; one is downstream of the dam and the other at Walter Flat. Station LRCLDM is at a point about 1,000 meters downstream of Clear Lake Reservoir dam. Station WFLAT is at a point about 10 meters downstream of the Walter Flat Bridge, about eight miles downstream of the dam. In addition to the two stations on the Upper Lost River, there were four monitoring locations in streams that lead to Clear Lake Reservoir, the source of the Lost River. One station was on North Fork Willow Creek, the main tributary to Clear Lake Reservoir and the primary spawning stream for the endangered Lost River and Shortnose suckers. Two other sites, on Boles and Fletcher Creeks, drain into Willow Creek. The fourth site, on Mowitz Creek, drains directly into Clear Lake Reservoir but does not contribute much water to the reservoir. This site was added late in the investigation because of the opportunity to add to a sparse dataset. All of the sites, except the station below the dam, were accessible only during late spring to early fall because wet weather made the roads impassable. Sampling locations were limited to areas that could be reached by truck. Logistical issues precluded sampling in Clear Lake Reservoir.
Temporal Representation: Sampling represents only one full season, late spring to early fall. Sampling included monthly grab samples and instantaneous measurements for one season, continuous temperature monitoring for one season, and two short continuous multiparameter deployments. The sampling periods do not correspond to the time periods that the suckers are in the streams. There were limited spots at which the streams could be accessed; these might not correspond to the points that provide representative data. Drawing conclusions about the impact of water temperature and nutrients on suckers based on sampling during summer, however, is justified because those months represent the conditions worse than the fish encounter during their time in the streams. Water temperature in the Upper Lost River/Clear Lake Reservoir watershed was investigated using: Remote continuous water and air temperature monitors (Optic stowaway data loggers) that took readings every 15 minutes from May through September 2002. Remote sensors that measured air temperature (Optic stowaway data loggers) and relative humidity (HOBO instruments) every 15 minutes for three days in June 2003. Solar pathfinder measurements to calculate solar radiation that reached stream surfaces. A thermal infrared aerial survey in July 2001and computer simulation modeling using the SSTEMP model. The monitoring instrument at the Boles Creek station was out of the water during that period due to seasonal dewatering and the sampling at Mowitz Creek did not begin until the following month.
Environmental Conditions: There are no point source waste discharges within the watershed. The land use operations that may impact the Upper Lost River watershed as nonpoint sources of water pollution are livestock operations (grazing) and timber harvest.
QAPP Information: NCRWQCB QA Procedures followed in the TMDL analysis.
QAPP Information Reference(s):